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This
programs molds a naive puppy into a highly polished, productive
bird dog as well as an enjoyable companion. Accomplishing
our goal of a truly finished dog requires 180 days of training.
This will be divided into two or three different periods of
training as your dog develops. Repetition is what trains dogs,
not force. When young dogs are pressured with too much too
fast, they become discouraged and problems are guaranteed.
A complete hunting dog is one that goes about the task at
hand with confidence and enthusiasm. After completion of this
level of training, the owner and dog will become an impressive
team, highly successful in the field and at home.
Your dog’s initial time is spent accomplishing two critical
steps toward our goal. We spend a tremendous amount of time
building a close bond between trainer and student along with
developing the pup’s inherited instincts and talents.
Many inexperienced trainers forsake the importance of this
and dive right into a no-nonsense, rigid obedience training
program. Graduates of that school will usually obey basic
commands but they never really learn to hunt and become good
bird finders. A young dog needs a great deal of time in the
field to become comfortable and confident in the various conditions
he will encounter while afield. Then they must learn all about
birds. It’s the same as a person who excels at what they
do; it never comes quick or easy. Introduction to gunfire
is also accomplished at this time.
Now
your pup has progressed. He or she is hunting well and consistently
using their inherited talents to locate game. Only now do
we begin modifying their skills to suit your specific style
of hunting. Whether it’s a grouse and woodcock specialist,
or a genuine pheasant dog you’re after, we have the knowledge,
equipment, grounds and birds to make it happen. The next segment
of their training focuses on obedience. We build a solid foundation
of come when called, heel, whoa, as well as whistle commands
for handling in the field. As always, regular hunting trips
to our farms are part of the routine for the trainees.
The remainder of their time in training is perhaps the most
critical. This is the time in which they put it all together
and are hunted extensively. Whoa training is strengthened
and steadiness to wing and shot achieved. Proper retrieving
manners are ensured through a course in conditioned retrieving.
The field and obedience work come together to produce a dog
you will be proud of and will put birds in your vest this
fall. Once the dogs are looking sharp, we then insist on working
with the owner. This ensures a smooth transition from training
to home. As your dog’s friend and leader, your education
is just as important as the one they just received. We will
then cover with you all training and handling techniques,
how and when to correct a dog for breach of manners, as well
as how to read your dog’s body language. The result of
this program is a top-notch bird dog and an owner capable
of bringing out the best in each other. This program unquestionably
produces our finest students season after season.
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